LANSING — Joanna Lewis, program administrator of the Michigan Conservative Energy Forum (MCEF), delivered public commentary on Wednesday in Livonia at the first hearing held by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) on Integrated Resource Plan requirements.

The MPSC is developing guidelines for utility Integrated Resource Plans (IRPs) as required under the state’s new energy laws. Utilities will use the parameters determined by the MPSC to develop IRPs that address demand response, energy waste reduction, environmental requirements, supply sufficiency, and other considerations.

“It’s important that we speak out on behalf of residential ratepayers to keep our Michigan electricity rates as low as possible,” said Lewis. “Under the leadership of Chairman Jim MacInnes, the Utility Consumer Participation Board (UCPB) acts as the advocate that ratepayers so desperately need. We appreciate the hard work of the UCPB and will continue to support their efforts to hold utilities accountable to ratepayers and small businesses. Currently, there is too much cost shifting from Commercial and Industrial customers to the under-protected Residential class.”

“Many of the stakeholders in this room are well-represented by lobbyists and coalitions, and thus their concerns have been heard. However, residential ratepayers themselves are often left without a voice in the process. Let’s not forget our responsibility to these individuals. The MPSC must do its due diligence to hold utilities accountable to the people of Michigan. We look forward to working with the MPSC throughout this process as we focus on Michigan ratepayers and their need for affordable electric service.”

MCEF will also deliver public comments at the MPSC hearings in Grand Rapids and Marquette on September 13 and September 19, respectively. For more information about the hearings and how to participate, contact MCEF at info@micef.org.

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About MCEF: The Michigan Conservative Energy Forum is an organization comprised of conservatives who believe that Michigan should adopt a true “All of the Above” energy policy that includes an increase in our commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency. MCEF believes encouraging diverse and clean energy production and reduced energy waste will create jobs and stimulate Michigan’s economy, reduce our reliance on foreign energy, improve our national security, and protect our valuable natural resources. http://www.micef.org/

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